The blog for CR Inside. Much talk about all things CR Inside...

It is with great pleasure that I write this letter and trust that I will be able to convey the blessing that I receive from the precious ladies that I am privileged to serve each Monday night. The first Monday I went to Lee Arrendale Prison I experienced “culture shock.” Fences higher than I could ever reach with barbed-wire at the top, doors that lock automatically behind you, and locked gates at every entrance/exit drastically stated “check your freedom at the front door.” I was so intimidated by this most unwelcoming greeting and wondered what I was thinking when I pursued this. You know that God always knows for sure what we question and I’m sure He at least grinned at my assumptions. When the lady prisoners joined us a little later that first night, it was clear to me that I was in the receiving line! Other than the Khaki jumpsuits they looked no different than our group of “church ladies.”

I am presently working with the ladies in the Transitional Center. These ladies are within twelve months of being released and trying to prepare themselves for a productive life. It is a very fluid group with an average attendance of 7. Some of these ladies have jobs in the surrounding area and might be scheduled to work on Monday nights during our Celebrate Recovery time. Others just can’t stay committed to the depth of personal inspection it requires. We have a solid group of 5 who attend regularly and are committed to a better life with God as their head. We share with them, hear their beautiful prayers, and see them soak up His word. They inspire us to stretch ourselves to be closer to Him as we help do His kingdom work.

I’ve had the privilege of hearing the testimony of one of our strongest Christian prisoners at one of the area churches. She definitely has received what God has given her and that is our goal for each of these ladies.

Please continue to join us in prayer for this ministry and as you are able please continue to help us with our budget. It is making a huge difference in the lives of these women and in the lives of those of us privileged to serve them!